After almost a two-year wait, Tourism Moose Jaw was able to unveil its newest trolley to the community on Wednesday afternoon.  

Tourism Moose Jaw board members and staff, provincial and municipal dignitaries, business owners, and the local media joined together at the Visitor’s Centre to christen the new trolley. 

Tourism Moose Jaw’s executive director, Jacki L’Heureux Mason says it’s been a long two years waiting for the trolley.  

“Words are hard for me, it’s huge for our staff and it’s big for the city,” says L’Heureux Mason. “We’ve seen moments where the trolley isn’t in operation, and we know it makes an impact on the economic driving of the city. Everyone loves seeing it and waving at it. It just feels good to bring something that is a little updated, newer, and more reliable to the streets.” 

In 2022, Tourism Moose Jaw received $295,000 to go toward the purchase of a brand-new trolley. 

They were hoping to get a brand-new one from a trolley manufacturer in the United States, but some red tape from Transport Canada prevented that.  

That didn't stop L’Heureux Mason, as she was able to find a 2009 trolley in Kingston, ON, to purchase. Following purchasing the new trolley, it made its maiden voyage from Ontario to Moose Jaw.  

“They don’t grow on trees; our options were limited.” 

Once in Moose Jaw, the new trolley, which has been named the Spirit of Moose Jaw, got a makeover to more of a modern look, while keeping the original feel of the current one.  

“Everyone loves the looks and the character of the old trolley. We could never replicate the old trolley. What we decided was that it is 2023, and it’s time to bring something that is accessible for our friends in a wheelchair and those that may have mobility issues. It has air conditioning for the comfort of our staff and of course, has some heat in the winter. Also, it is more environmentally friendly.” 

More features of the new trolley are cushioned seats, an upgraded sound system, and a modern-looking exterior.  

The hope is still there to get a brand-new one. L’Heureux Mason still has about a month to figure out if they will be able to purchase a trolley from the USA.  

If that doesn’t happen, Tourism Moose Jaw will then put about $100,000 into upgrading the existing trolley. 

“Upgrading seats, replacing flooring, and changing paneling. It will look as brand-new on the inside, as it will on the outside if we end up not getting the brand-new trolley.” 

The current trolley will be kept as a backup and will be available to reserve for events such as weddings or family reunions.  

The new trolley will be used for Tourism Moose Jaw's three different trolley tours, which are the daytime tour, ghost tour, and true crime tour.   

L’Heureux Mason wanted to take a moment to thank the Tourism Moose Jaw board of directors and the residents of Moose Jaw for making this dream become a reality.  

Below is a video of the christening: